Kollmorgen motion solutions used in fight against COVID-19

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Radford, VA – Kollmorgen is playing a critical role in the global fight against COVID-19. Its global production facilities are fully operational, including those in Radford which are CURRENTLY HIRING for a number of positions, and are producing motion solutions that are used by essential equipment manufacturers around the world.

Kollmorgen motion solutions are being used in the manufacturing of respirators and other personal protective equipment, test kits, diagnostic machines, ventilators, blood-gas analyzers, blood pumps, CT scanning equipment, and more. All of these products are essential to the diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19 and its complications.

Beyond healthcare, many other Kollmorgen partners that provide essential services – from aerospace and defense, to food production and packaging, automated warehousing of critical household supplies, and energy and communications, to name a few — depend on a reliable supply of its components.

Its design teams and manufacturing facilities are responding with urgency to dozens of requests to accelerate design cycles, increase production, and speed delivery for the motion systems that directly fight COVID-19 and keep essential services continuing for people who need them the most.

As Kollmorgen helps its partners defeat this pandemic and provide for essential needs around the world, its number-one priority remains the well-being of its employees and their loved ones. Kollmorgen is scrupulously following best-practice safety recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO), national health organizations, and other local government agencies.

Spectrum Brands shifting production to produce hand sanitizer in Blacksburg

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BLACKSBURG, Va. – Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: SPB; “Spectrum Brands”), a leading global branded consumer products company committed to delivering strong brands and exciting innovation whose Home & Garden business unit supplies Cutter® Insect Repellents, today announced it has shifted production in its Blacksburg, Va., manufacturing plant to produce hand sanitizer. The hand sanitizer is being produced during the COVID-19 pandemic to support the company’s facilities, U.S. employees, and several local organizations in communities where the company operates.

In two short weeks, the Blacksburg team formulated and pivoted manufacturing to produce hand sanitizer, a much-needed product during this unprecedented pandemic. The team then began supplying the hand sanitizer to all 15 Spectrum Brands facilities and offices across the U.S. to promote the safety of the organization’s employees.

In addition to supplying hand sanitizer to employees and facilities, Cutter™ brand will donate hand sanitizer to local organizations across the communities in which Spectrum Brands has operations. Cutter® mosquito and tick repellent products have been protecting families for over 50 years as one of the leading repellent brands in the U.S.

“It’s a natural extension of the brand portfolio to expand the Cutter™ line beyond insect protection to fight germs as well,” said Steve Schwallie, Division Vice President of Marketing at Spectrum Brands. “We are pleased to be able to move into this segment and provide these products for our community partners.”

While the team continues to identify community partners, Carilion Clinic, a not-for-profit health care organization based in Roanoke, Va., and the St. Louis Area Foodbank are among the first organizations to receive Cutter™ hand sanitizer donations. The St. Louis Area Foodbank will distribute the donated sanitizers to its network and use them within its facility.

“We are so grateful for our ongoing partnership with Cutter™ brand and for this donation of hand sanitizers,” said Meredith Knopp, President and CEO for the St. Louis Area Foodbank. “Proper sanitation is critical for us to continue serving those in need in the St. Louis community. Cutter™ brand has been a longtime partner of ours, and this donation will go a long way – for our network and the individuals in need of assistance in our community.”

Cutter™ hand sanitizer will also be available to consumers in the coming weeks.

About Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.

Spectrum Brands Holdings, a member of the Russell 1000 Index, is a leading supplier of residential locksets, residential builders’ hardware, plumbing, shaving and grooming products, personal care products, small household appliances, specialty pet supplies, lawn and garden and home pest control products, and personal insect repellents. Helping to meet the needs of consumers worldwide, Spectrum Brands offers a broad portfolio of market-leading, well-known and widely trusted brands including Kwikset®, Weiser®, Baldwin®, National Hardware®, Pfister®, Remington®, George Foreman®, Russell Hobbs®, Black+Decker®, Tetra®, Marineland®, Nature’s Miracle®, Dingo®, 8-in-1®, FURminator®, IAMS® and Eukanuba® (Europe only), Digest-eeze™, Healthy-Hide®, Littermaid®, Spectracide®, Cutter®, Repel®, Hot Shot®, Black Flag® and Liquid Fence®. For more information, please visit www.spectrumbrands.com.

About Cutter® Products

Wherever your outdoor adventures take you, Cutter® products keep your family covered. For more than 50 years, the Cutter brand has been a trusted name in insect repellents, with a range of formulations available that make it easy to pick the right product to ward off mosquitoes and ticks. With the brand’s expansion into the personal care category with hand sanitizer and insect bite care products, now there are more Cutter options available than ever to protect what you love most. For more information about Cutter products, visit www.cutterinsectrepellent.com.

Media Contact:
Connie Caldwell, Communications/Creative Services
Spectrum Brands, Inc. – Global Pet Care/Home & Garden
connie.caldwell@spectrumbrands.com 

Source: Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.

 

H&V Delivering Critical Materials in the Fight Against COVID-19

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Floyd, VA – As the COVID-19 virus is straining the global healthcare supply chain, Hollingsworth & Vose, which has operations in Floyd County, is busy making filtration material that is a critical component in Respiratory Protection Equipment being used to fight the virus. H&V is taking this responsibility seriously as well as the safety of its employees and the community. Over the last few months, the corporation has added staff and adjusted manufacturing schedules to optimize the amount of product it can produce in response to this global health crisis. H&V is also prioritizing orders from existing customers who have active manufacturing and distribution within the respiratory protection market with approved products. This approach will optimize the speed and number of people who can be helped in this challenging situation. H&V is currently supplying media that will be used in the following applications:
  • 40 million N95 facemasks per month
  • 40 million medical breathing devices, including ventilators per month
  • 20,000 HEPA filters per month used in hospitals and pharmaceutical laboratories

COVID-19 Resources for Business Portal Launched

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Blacksburg, VA – Onward New River Valley and its partnering organizations are working diligently to understand the short- and long-term impacts of COVID-19 on businesses in the NRV. As we begin to adapt to the new challenges our region and nation face, Onward NRV and its partners are here to do everything we can to support your company in this evolving business climate.

Today, we launched a new “COVID-19 Resources for Business” page on the Virginia’s New River Valley website. The page is designed to be an online portal for information and resources to help businesses in the NRV plan and respond to the impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The page will allow us to collect and compiling resources in one central location as they become available.

If we or our partners can be of any assistance to you during these uncertain times, please let us know. For question or assistance, contact James Cabler, Director of Business Engagement, at james@onwardnrv.org or 540-267-0007.

Pulaski County Led Virginia in Economic Development Performance in 2019

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Pulaski County, VA – Pulaski County once again tops the state in economic development, finishing 1st in the Commonwealth for new job creation and 2nd in the Commonwealth for new capital investment per capita.

According to data compiled by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on announcements of employment creation and capital investment for 2019, Pulaski County finished 1st overall in Job Creation, 2nd overall in New Capital Investment and 17th overall in the Number of Projects Announced per capita for the Calendar Year 2019, out of all 95 counties and 38 independent cities within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The ranking outcomes were the result of Pulaski County’s two (2) qualified projects in CY-2019, both of which were officially announced in concert with the Governor’s office. These two (2) basic industry sector projects will collectively create more than 790 new jobs and more than $401 million in new capital investment. The two projects referenced consisted of Volvo Trucks North America and BimmerWorld.

“The Board of Supervisors is very gratified to receive the number one spot in economic development for the second time in three years. This continuing success is certain to have significant long-term benefits to the people of our county and to the economy of the entire New River Valley. We have one of the best economic development teams in Virginia, and they have been working very effectively with the previous and current Board of Supervisor members and other local leaders to support our existing businesses and industries to create jobs and encourage investment here in Pulaski County.” – Joseph Guthrie, Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors

Pulaski County also ranked number 1 in the Commonwealth in 2017 for Overall Economic Development Performance per capita having facilitated the creation of more than 600 new jobs and $57 million in new capital investment derived from five (5) qualified basic industry sector projects in CY-2017. Since January of 2017, Pulaski County has enjoyed seven (7) qualified announcements that have resulted in nearly $475 million in new capital investment and more than 1,460 new jobs created. One of the seven announcements recently occurred on January 21, 2020, when Patton Logistics, LLC was welcomed as the newest member of Pulaski County’s business community.

“We knew Pulaski County had another impressive year of announcements, but did not anticipate we would end up on top again out of all 133 jurisdictions considering Virginia’s #1 business ranking and how strong the economy was in 2019. We are thankful to have world-class companies such as Bimmerworld and Volvo who call Pulaski County home and are willing to invest millions and even hundreds of millions into their operations, their people and their future.” – Jon Wyatt, Chair of the Pulaski County Economic Development Authority

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Pulaski County’s unemployment rate remained at the 20-year low of 2.8% in November of 2019, reaching the third lowest monthly rate in more than 30 years. “The availability of good jobs is foundational to the health of our local economy and achieving our goal of 40,000 people by 2030, and it takes leadership from our elected officials, a skilled workforce, a talented economic development team and trust, confidence and commitment from our businesses to make this possible,” stated Jonathan D. Sweet, County Administrator. “Our culminated successes in the past three years is not by accident, but rather the results of a lot of hard work, strategy, creativity and risk taking by our economic development team, the unwavering support of our Board of Supervisors and EDA, a deep talent pool and without a doubt, God’s favor.”

Pulaski County, located in the New River Valley of Virginia, is home to eight (8) international companies that represents more than 5,000 advanced manufacturing jobs. The County is considered to be Southwest Virginia’s Center for International Business and the New River Valley’s Advanced Manufacturing Hub.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Obis One LLC Announces Ninety Percent Expansion in VT CRC

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Blacksburg, VA – Obis One LLC, North America’s largest and most inventive manufacturer of organic black garlic, announces a 90% expansion to operations and R&D at their Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center headquarters in Blacksburg, Virginia.

In June of 2016, Dr. Patrick and Lisa Lloyd moved their residence to Jefferson National Forest and expanded business operations in Blacksburg, Virginia. The new facility at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center afforded a unique opportunity to increase research and development in food innovation and continue creating impeccable highest-quality, artisan products. What’s more, they are securing local organic farmers to continue the growth and quality of their premium garlic crop.

Obis One has 100% control over every ounce of well water irrigation, organic fertilization, planting, harvest, curing, aging, packaging and distribution. In addition, they plant a myriad of specialty plants and edible flowers in rotation with their premium garlic and deliver the freshest, hard to find specialties. Obis One actively supports culinary teaching and learning, especially to K-12, supporting their motto “Sharing the Goodness.”

With their customer base expanding from coast to coast by 23% in 2019, the operation is expanding production and R&D by 90%.

“This might seem to be a risky time to expand because garlic markets are at an all-time high due to present world health concerns, but that’s exactly why we’re marching forward. More importantly, we cannot and will not let down our valued customer base in America as they always come first. At Obis One we have an obligation to all people to get our healthy products in their hands, especially now.”
– Patrick W. Lloyd, Ph.D., founder and CEO of Obis One LLC.

In February 2020, Obis One attended Gulfood, the largest food show of its kind in the World.

“Thankfully, health, reputation and pristine quality always wins, and we received rave interest in Dubai, Jordan, India and Saudi Arabia”, said Patrick Lloyd, Founder and & CEO. “These responses are very similar to the love we’ve always received in the USA. This is a very organic and strategically sound venture by a small company proud to be in Virginia. Looking at risk and the bottom line becomes less scary when you know that your company creates products that are ultra-wholesome and makes us all better people. Yeah, let’s do that.”

The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center’s Chief Operating Officer, Dawn Myers, CPM, said, “We are thrilled to hear about the success of Patrick Lloyd, Ph.D., an innovative food entrepreneur, and are so proud he calls our research park home. When we hear about these achievements it solidifies that what we are doing, does makes a difference.”

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Obis One LLC is the leading producer of certified organic black garlic in the U.S. Located at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center in Blacksburg, VA, this family-owned business in centered on innovation, having developed over 17 original black garlic products in under 5 years. Owner and founder Patrick W. Lloyd, Ph.D. developed an extension of black garlic use when he invented Black CrackÒ. Pure cracked black garlic, the product was named in their Top 100 as Best Condiment by Saveur Magazine. It has become a launchpad for various other products over the past few years.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Radford University Cyber Defense Club Places Third

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Radford, VA – The Cyber Defense Club at Radford University placed 3rd at the Virginia Cyber Cup Capture the Flag Competition held at Virginia Military Institute on February 21st and 22nd. George Mason University was in first place and the University of Virginia came in second.

The team included: Kyle Higginbotham, Victoria Williamson, Alex Largen, John Laws, Nolan Ierardi and Sean Anderson. Amanda Tolman was an observer student. Dr. Chen-Chi Shing accompanied the team at the contest as the coach.

In the Virginia Cyber Cup Capture the Flag Competition, competing teams tackle problems in scenarios designed to model real-world computer security challenges across a range of categories that includes cryptography, network traffic analysis, reverse engineering, steganography, and more. An understanding of historical and modern security vulnerabilities is helpful to gain the most of this experience. With challenges ranging from introductory to advanced, this competition is designed to both test skills and teach concepts.

The Virginia Cyber Cup Capture-the-Flag (CTF) competition is a Jeopardy-style CTF in which teams solve individual challenges of various point values across different categories to score points. The competition uses a web-based CTF engine hosted by the Virginia Cyber Range.

The competition is developed and hosted by the Virginia Cyber Range and is part of Commonwealth Cyberfusion, an invitation-only event combines a collegiate cyber competition with learning and career opportunities that emphasize Cyber Fusion. This event is co-hosted by Virginia Military Institute, Senator Mark R. Warner and the VirginiaCyber Range.

This is the 4th iteration of the contest. In the past, Radford teams placed 2nd in 2017, 3rd in 2018, 6th in 2019, and this time 3rd.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Prime Photonics Completes VEDP International Business Acceleration Program

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Richmond, VA — The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) today announced that 14 companies from across the Commonwealth have graduated from its Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) Program. The program, which now has 304 graduates, assists Virginia exporters that have firmly established their domestic operations and are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy.

“The Virginia Leaders in Export Trade program helps companies of all sizes expand into global markets, positioning our existing businesses for growth and significantly contributing to the Commonwealth’s economic vitality,” said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “The VALET Program provides the critical tools and expertise for participants to navigate new markets and successfully export products overseas. We congratulate these 14 Virginia companies on their international growth, and applaud the Virginia Economic Development Partnership for facilitating this impactful program.” The graduating companies recognized during an event in Richmond include:

Prime Photonics, LC (Montgomery County)
AT&T Business – Global Public Sector – Defense (Fairfax County)
Blue Ridge Optics, LLC (Bedford County)
Boss Lumber (Mediterranean Corporation) (City of Galax)
DESMI Inc. (City of Chesapeake)
FUJIFILM Wako Chemicals USA (Chesterfield County)
Harris Healthcare (Fairfax County)
Instant Systems Inc. (City of Norfolk)
JRC Integrated Systems (King George County)
McQ Inc. (Stafford County)
SD Solutions LLC (Page County)
Strongwell Corporation (City of Bristol)
Symplicity Corporation (Arlington County)
Trident Systems Incorporated (Fairfax County)

Currently, the VALET program has 44 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet the companies’ international business goals. To date, 348 Virginia companies have participated in the VALET program.

“Increasing trade and trade-related jobs in Virginia are among VEDP’s top priorities. Executed by our world-class International Trade team, the VALET program has a proven track record of helping Virginia businesses increase their export sales. We are confident that the companies graduating today will see continued global success in the coming years, contributing meaningful growth to the Commonwealth’s economy.”
– Jason El Koubi, VEDP Executive Vice President

The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion, and international trade development.

For more information on the VALET Program click here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Aeroprobe Corporation Selected to Participate in Virginia’s VALET Program

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RICHMOND, VA — The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) announced the acceptance of Aeroprobe Corporation, a Montgomery County company, into its two-year Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. The VALET program assists companies in the Commonwealth that are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy. To participate, each business must meet both quantitative and qualitative selection criteria. Participating firms are chosen based on their dedication to growing export sales. To date, 348 Virginia companies have been accepted to participate in the VALET program.

“Increasing trade and trade-related jobs in Virginia are among VEDP’s top priorities,” said VEDP Executive Vice President Jason El Koubi. “Executed by our world-class International Trade team, the VALET program has a proven track record of helping Virginia businesses increase their export sales, contributing economic growth and ensuring that Virginia remains competitive in the global marketplace.”

“The VALET program puts participating companies on the fast track to international business growth by connecting them with the necessary tools for successful international sales. We are excited to welcome Aeroprobe Corporation into the VALET Program and look forward to working with them over the course of the next two years.” – Stephanie Agee, Vice President of International Trade

Currently, the VALET program has 44 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet the companies’ international business goals. These private sector service providers contribute essential expertise to assist companies in executing export plans and include attorneys, web designers, bankers, translators, accountants, and freight forwarders.

The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe.

Aeroprobe Corporation

Aeroprobe is the world’s leading producer of air data and flow measurement systems for the aerospace, automotive, turbomachinery, and wind energy industries around the world. Aeroprobe has been a trusted partner to designers, engineers, researchers, and pilots since 1994. The company’s mission is to exceed customer expectations by providing accurate, high quality, reliable measurement systems. For more information, please visit http://www.aeroprobe.com.

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion and international trade development.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

NRV Commerce Park Welcomes Patton Logistics Group

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Dublin, VA – Governor Ralph Northam today announced that The Patton Logistics Group will invest $12 million to establish a new logistics and warehousing operation in the New River Valley Commerce Park in Pulaski County.

Patton provides integrated supply chain solutions for clients throughout the United States and Canada. The facility will also serve as a hub for motor carrier freight services to reach major clients in Eastern United States markets. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina for the project, which will create 33 new jobs.

“The Patton Logistics Group is a significant addition to Pulaski County’s New River Valley Commerce Park. This project will bring 33 new jobs and strengthen Virginia’s supply chain management sector. We are confident that the region’s top-notch workforce and access to expanding markets along I-81 and I-77 will help the company serve its growing client list.” -Governor Ralph Northam.

The Patton Logistics Group is comprised of three separate organizations employing 560 people throughout the United States. Watsontown Trucking Company is a family-owned and -operated asset-based motor carrier founded in 1941. They operate a fleet of 400 trucks and 1,150 trailers with a workforce of 475. Patton Logistics, LLC was organized in 2013 as an affiliated entity of Watsontown Trucking Company to provide transportation brokerage and third-party logistics services for its expanding customer base. Patton Warehousing, LLC was formed in 2015 and currently manages 1.6 million square feet of warehouse space in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New Jersey. The Patton Logistics Group management team has over 150 years of combined transportation and logistics knowledge and can provide integrated supply chain solutions ranging from motor carrier transportation, warehousing, distribution services, logistics, and brokerage sourcing. Watsontown Trucking Company has received numerous service and safety awards from clients and business partners.

“Virginia’s unparalleled transportation infrastructure and access to domestic and global markets continue to attract high-caliber retail supply chain companies like The Patton Logistics Group,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “With interstate access and a cross-dock terminal located nearby, Pulaski County’s proximity to population clusters and easily navigable logistics options played a role in the company’s decision to expand its operations in Virginia. The New River Valley location will enable Patton Logistics to serve major nearby clients and grow its presence in Eastern United States markets, and we thank Patton for its significant investment.”

“Over the past several years we have developed a motor carrier transportation and logistics presence in Southwest Virginia and throughout the Southeastern United States,” said Steve Patton, President of Watsontown Trucking Company and Patton Warehousing and Logistics, LLC. “We chose to further expand in Dublin, Virginia, for several reasons: first, this location provides access to a superior workforce that is dedicated to help us develop a reliable logistics system for our clients. Also, the close proximity to the interstate highway system gives us the ability to provide daily service to population centers in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Tennessee. Finally, Southwest Virginia is home to two of our largest clients and having a location near them will only enhance our ability to serve their logistics needs in the future.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County, Virginia’s First Regional Industrial Facility Authority (VFRIFA), and Onward New River Valley to secure this project for Virginia. Governor Northam approved a $150,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pulaski County with the project. Patton Logistics is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

“Our economic development team worked hard to compete for and secure Patton Logistics’ site location decision, and we are delighted to welcome them as the newest member of our business community,” said Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors Joseph Guthrie. “Even better, since they are a highly capable 3PL resource, they will further support Pulaski County’s diverse advanced manufacturing sector. This announcement is a great way to begin 2020 as it continues the success the county has had recently in economic development, bringing Pulaski County’s new capital investment totals to nearly $475 million and more than 1,460 new jobs created in the past three years.”

“VFRIFA is excited to welcome Patton Logistics Group as the latest business to locate in the 1,000-acre NRV Commerce Park,” said VFRIFA Board Chair Mary Biggs. “This amazing project would not have been possible without the support from the 11 localities that make up VFRIFA: the counties of Bland, Craig, Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski, and Roanoke; cities of Radford and Roanoke; and the towns of Dublin, Pearisburg, and Pulaski. In addition, financial assistance from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority and an ARC Grant administered by Virginia DHCD helped make this project a reality.”

“It’s good to see Pulaski County beginning a new decade with a continued growing economy,” said Delegate Nick Rush. “The addition of Patton Logistics will provide a double benefit to the New River Valley with expanded commerce and capital. We look forward to welcoming the Group to Southwest Virginia with our strong support and best wishes for success.”

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.